Angkor Thom, Cambodia

The Grandeur of the Khmer Empire's Last Capital

Overview

Angkor Thom, Cambodia Cruise Port

Angkor Thom, meaning "Great City," is the sprawling last capital city of the Khmer Empire, established in the late 12th century by King Jayavarman VII. Located within the vast Angkor Archaeological Park near Siem Reap, Cambodia, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site of immense historical and architectural significance. Enclosed by massive 8-meter-high walls and a wide moat, this ancient city was once home to an estimated 80,000 to 150,000 people.

Angkor Thom is not a single temple but a complex containing several magnificent monuments, most notably the enigmatic Bayon Temple at its center, famous for its colossal smiling stone faces. Visitors will also explore the grandeur of the Terrace of the Elephants, the Terrace of the Leper King, and other significant structures that reveal the artistic genius and spiritual beliefs of the Khmer civilization. A visit to Angkor Thom offers a profound journey into a lost empire, where ancient stone structures emerge from the jungle, bearing witness to centuries of history and devotion.

Top Things to Do in Angkor Thom, Cambodia

Marvel at the Enigmatic Faces of Bayon Temple

At the very heart of Angkor Thom lies the iconic Bayon Temple, famous for its hundreds of colossal, smiling stone faces carved into its towers. These enigmatic visages are believed to represent Lokeshvara (a Buddhist deity) and possibly King Jayavarman VII himself, creating a truly unique and mystical atmosphere.

Tip: Explore the various levels of the Bayon; the intricate bas-reliefs on the lower galleries depict historical events and everyday life of the Khmer people.

Walk the Grand Terrace of the Elephants

Stroll along the impressive Terrace of the Elephants, a 350-meter-long platform adorned with intricate carvings of elephants and other mythological creatures. This terrace served as a grand viewing stand for public ceremonies, royal processions, and the king's reviews of his victorious army.

Tip: Look for the detailed carvings along the base of the terrace, depicting hunting scenes and processions, which offer insights into Khmer life.

Discover the Mysteries of the Terrace of the Leper King

Just north of the Terrace of the Elephants, explore the Terrace of the Leper King, named after a moss-covered statue found there (now a replica, with the original in the National Museum). The terrace features beautifully carved bas-reliefs of celestial beings in multiple layers, forming a labyrinthine pathway.

Tip: Bring a flashlight to better illuminate the intricate carvings hidden within the narrow passages of the inner wall of the terrace.

Admire the Gates of Angkor Thom

Pass through one of the magnificent gates of Angkor Thom, especially the South Gate, which is often the main entry point for visitors. These towering sandstone gates are crowned with four giant faces, similar to those at the Bayon, and are flanked by long causeways lined with rows of devas (gods) and asuras (demons) holding giant nagas (serpents), depicting the "Churning of the Sea of Milk" myth.

Tip: The South Gate is particularly photogenic, especially in the morning light.

Explore the Royal Palace Enclosure and Phimeanakas

Within Angkor Thom, discover the remnants of the Royal Palace Enclosure and the pyramid-shaped temple of Phimeanakas. While much of the wooden palace structure has long since perished, the stone foundations and the temple provide a sense of the grandeur of the royal complex.

Tip: Climbing Phimeanakas (if accessible and open) offers good views over the surrounding area of the former Royal Palace.

Visit Baphuon Temple

Explore Baphuon Temple, a massive three-tiered temple-mountain within Angkor Thom. Known for its challenging climb and once-crumbling state (it underwent extensive restoration), it offers intricate bas-reliefs depicting scenes from Hindu mythology and panoramic views from its upper levels.

Tip: The temple is quite steep; wear appropriate footwear and be prepared for a strenuous but rewarding climb.

Overview